LOWER GWYNEDD — Police are asking for the public’s help in tracking down a man who allegedly stole wedding gifts from a reception at the William Penn Inn.

Montgomery County District Attorney Risa Vetri Ferman and Lower Gwynedd Township Police Chief Paul Kenny announced July 11 an arrest warrant has been filed for Joseph Patrick Franzone Jr., 35, of Bridgeport, charging him with theft and related offenses after he allegedly crashed a wedding and stole thousands of dollars worth of wedding gifts.

According to an official statement, Lower Gwynedd police responded to a report of a theft July 7 that took place during a wedding reception at the William Penn Inn. During the reception, video surveillance captures a family member of the newly married couple assisting the newlyweds by transferring gift items from inside the reception outside into the back driver’s side seat of a vehicle. In the course of returning to the reception to transport additional items to the car, it was found that gifts previously placed in the car were missing. It is estimated that the value of the stolen gifts was between $3,000 and $5,000.

According to officials, review of surveillance video for the inn showed a man casing the reception and parking lot. Still photographs from the video were broadcast on local stations and numerous tips were received by the police regarding the identity of the man indicating that the photo showed Joseph Franzone.

Officials stated an investigation revealed that Franzone had borrowed his girlfriend’s car July 7. A search of the car revealed an envelope from two of the wedding guests. Consequently, the warrant for Franzone’s arrest was issued.

Police are seeking information on Franzone’s whereabouts. Anyone with information is requested to contact Lower Gwynedd police at 215-646-5303.

The case will be prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Lindsay O’Brien.